Transitioning Teacher Consultations and Trainings

Transitioning Teacher Consultations and Trainings

The Out Alliance commends you for supporting your transitioning teacher and for creating an inclusive and welcoming school for everyone. Studies have shown that employees experience an increase in productivity, commitment and loyalty when they are able to bring their authentic selves to work. Our suggestions for a successful transition are as follows:

Initial Meeting: The LGBTQ Academy at the Out Alliance recommends scheduling an initial consultation meeting with our trained staff, the transitioning employee, work team leader, school principal and any other mangers or leaders who you feel should be notified and involved in the planning. At this meeting we will discuss: the current climate at your school around diversity issues, our recommendations regarding staff trainings (content and timing), notification of parents and guidelines for creating an inclusive school. There will also be ample time to discuss any questions or concerns.

Leadership Training: Following the initial meeting we recommend scheduling an LGBTQ Academy training for the leadership team. This training will focus on: understanding trans* identities, respectful language, modeling respectful behavior as team leaders, looking at current policies and best practices and tips for answering questions and addressing concerns from staff, parents and students.

Work Team Training: Following the leadership training we recommend scheduling an LGBTQ Academy training or several trainings for all co-workers who will come in regular contact with the transitioning teacher. This training will focus on: understanding trans* identities, respectful language, expectations as staff, helping to create a welcoming environment and answering questions and addressing concerns from staff.

Optional Parent Program: Following the training of teachers and school staff, we recommend offering an informational meeting to any parents who might be interested in attending. This session is an opportunity for parents to learn more about transgender identities and related school polices. Parents will also be given ample time to ask questions or share concerns.

At the Out Alliance we have found that when schools take the time to train their teachers and staff, offer information and support to the parents and students and work towards inclusive spaces, an employee’s transition will go significantly smoother for all involved.

Feedback from our Transitioning Teacher Consultation and Trainings in Rochester

“The presenters were class acts! I want more time.”

“Thank you for all your support. Your expertise and experience greatly contributed to the event going smoothly for the teacher, our administrative support staff, the students and the community.”

“I learned a lot more about gender identity and expression than I thought I could!”

“Very open and comfortable environment… safe to ask questions.”

100% of the participants from this training rated both the training and the presenters “excellent.”